Quickstart

StellarRent: Redefining Rentals with Blockchain 🏠

StellarRent is a property rental platform built on the Stellar blockchain, enabling decentralized and secure property listings, rentals, and management.

What is StellarRent?

StellarRent utilizes smart contracts on the Stellar blockchain to:

  • List properties as an owner

  • Rent properties as a tenant

  • Confirm rentals as an owner

  • Make secure payments using blockchain technology

Step-by-Step Guide for Absolute Beginners

Prerequisites

  1. A computer with an internet connection

  2. A web browser (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)

  3. A terminal/command line (pre-installed on your OS)

Step 1: Install Node.js

Node.js is required to run the application.

  1. Visit nodejs.org

  2. Download the "LTS" (Long-Term Support) version

  3. Follow the installation instructions

To verify that Node.js is installed correctly, open the terminal and type:

node -v

You should see something like v18.x.x or higher.

Step 2: Install Git

Git is required to download the code.

  • Windows: Download from git-scm.com

  • Mac: Open Terminal and type git --version. If it's not installed, you’ll be prompted to install it.

  • Linux: Use your package manager (e.g., sudo apt-get install git on Ubuntu)

Step 3: Download the Project

  1. Open the terminal

  2. Navigate to the folder where you want to save the project:

cd Documents

  1. Clone the repository:

git clone https://github.com/your-username/stellar-dapp.git
cd stellar-dapp

Step 4: Install Dependencies

In the terminal, inside the project folder, run:

npm install

This may take a few minutes. It installs all necessary libraries for the project.

Step 5: Install the Freighter Wallet

Freighter is the digital wallet used to interact with the Stellar blockchain.

  1. Visit freighter.app

  2. Click "Add to Browser" for your browser

  3. Follow the instructions to create a new wallet

  4. IMPORTANT! Store your recovery phrase in a safe place

Step 6: Get Test Funds

To use the Stellar test network, you need free test tokens:

  1. Go to laboratory.stellar.org

  2. Copy your public address from Freighter

  3. Paste it into the address field and create a test account

Step 7: Start the Application

In the terminal, run:

npm run dev

When you see a message like "localhost:3000 ready," the application is running.

Step 8: Use the Application

  1. Open your browser and go to http://localhost:3000

  2. Connect your Freighter wallet by clicking "Connect Wallet"

  3. Now you can:

    • List a property: Click on your profile and select "List Property"

    • Rent a property: Browse available properties and click "Rent"

    • View details: Click on any property to see more information

Common Troubleshooting

"Connect Wallet" Button Not Working?

  • Make sure Freighter is installed and logged in

  • Check that you’re on the "Testnet" network

Error Listing or Renting a Property?

  • Ensure you have enough funds in your test account

  • Verify you are connected to the correct network in Freighter

Application Won’t Start?

  • Check that Node.js is installed correctly

  • Make sure you are inside the correct project folder

  • Try running npm install again

Useful Resources

What is Stellar?

Stellar is an open-source blockchain network designed to facilitate cross-border payments and transactions. It offers:

  • Fast transactions (under 5 seconds)

  • Low fees (fractions of a cent)

  • Energy efficiency (sustainable and low consumption)

  • Smart contracts powered by Soroban

Why Use Stellar for Rentals?

  • Security: Transactions and contracts are immutable and transparent

  • Efficiency: Instant payments without intermediaries

  • Trust: No need for third parties to guarantee payments

  • Global Reach: Works anywhere in the world

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